FIVE NOMINEES IN THE RUNNING FOR SECOND ANNUAL COMMUNITY HERO AWARD
A young scout leader, volunteering mum and rural fireys are among five nominees in line for this year’s Community Hero Award – a regional initiative celebrating the work of Greenbank and Jimboomba’s ‘quiet achievers’.
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The nominees were revealed at the Greenbank State School's 125th Anniversary Carnival on the weekend and include scout leader Stephanie Field, Greenbank Busy Bees Playgroup director Jade Cooper, Greenbank State School former P&C president Sharon Aldridge, veterinarian Glenn Geissler and the Jimboomba Rural Fire Brigade.
The Community Hero Awards is now in its second year and aims to recognise those who work tirelessly in the local community for the benefit of others.
Enriching Communities Greenbank Founder and creator of the Community Hero Awards, Suzanne Guastini, said a new voting website now allows members of the public to be involved in the judging process for the first time.
“I’m thrilled we can open the voting to the public, giving them the chance to acknowledge those community members who so generously donate their time to make Greenbank an exceptional place to live,” said Ms Guastini.
“This year's nominees come from diverse backgrounds but all share similar qualities; they work tirelessly to support, nurture and promote their community, fostering a sense of good-will and pride.
“They are wonderful role models for Greenbank and surrounding areas, and we are pleased to be able to give them the recognition they so deserve.”
Mirvac Queensland Residential General Manager, Warwick Bible, said the company, through its new masterplanned community, Everleigh, was proud to support the awards for the second year.
“These awards serves as a fantastic way to celebrate the wonderful work and commitment of these outstanding members of the Greenbank community, who strive to improve and enrich the lives of their neighbours,” said Mr Bible.
“These generous residents don’t donate their time for recognition, but that’s exactly why they deserve a nod.
“We encourage all members of the public to visit the website and have their say on who they would like to see named this year’s Community Hero.”
The winner will be announced at Greenbank’s annual Christmas Extravaganza on Saturday 1 December 2018, hosted by the Greenbank Rural Fire Brigade and supported by Everleigh.
For more information on the nominees and to cast your vote, visit www.communityheroawards.com.au
THE NOMINEES:
Stephanie Field
The youngest nominee, Stephanie started giving back to the community 10 years ago as a Greenbank Cub Scout. More recently the 18-year-old led a four-day expedition trekking and camping through the Great Sandy National Park on the Sunshine Coast, where she navigated the terrain, helped build the group's confidence, and encouraged and empowered her peers to push through challenges. She has even received a Royal Certificate from Her Majesty the Queen.
Jade Cooper
Local farmer, wife and mum of four, Jade is the director and driving force behind the Greenbank Busy Bees Playgroup - a self-funded organisation that has been part of the community for 30 years. When the playgroup almost closed earlier this year, Jade sought sponsorship from the business industry to help rebuild the group - and secured the support of Mirvac. Thanks to Jade's initiative and leadership, the playgroup now operates as a free weekly service for young families.
Sharon Aldridge
Sharon has been supporting Greenbank families for 15 years through volunteer roles at Greenbank State School and C&K Kindergarten. The former president of the school’s P&C, Sharon has been instrumental in school community projects including the Gumnut House Outside School Hours Care facility, the construction of the school hall, the tuckshop upgrade and the Greenbank School Carnival.
Glenn Geissler
Veterinarian Dr Glenn Geissler is passionate about animal welfare and education. The local father has owned and operated Greenbank clinic The Bloomin Vet for 12 years and produces free videos on a variety of animal health issues. In addition to a suite of pet services, Dr Geissler provides emergency medical care for lost, stray and injured animals, and mentors more than 10 high school students each year through work experience placements, while offering industry placement for student vet nurses.
Jimboomba Rural Fire Brigade
The Jimboomba Rural Fire Brigade (JRFB) was established in 1978. Funded by donations and community raffles, the volunteer group has provided rural fire-fighting service assistance and helped in natural disaster recovery operations, both locally and around the state. In an Queensland-first, the Jimboomba station operated under a ‘Joint Service Delivery Model’ for 13 years, allowing volunteer members to work alongside professional fire-fighters. The rural brigade celebrated four decades of service, before the transition to an urban service was completed in July.